Before sunrise on Wednesday, 8 July, nearly 100 people came together at Te Whare Rānui in Porirua. This was for Mary Potter Hospice’s first Matariki Hautapu. Attendees included staff, volunteers, whaiora, whānau, and community partners.
The morning was cold and drizzly, but any chill in the air was quickly replaced by the warmth of the people. They came together to mark the Māori New Year, focusing on remembrance, gratitude, and hope.
In partnership with Tū Ora and Mana Wāhine, the inaugural Hautapu started a new annual hospice tradition. It shows Mary Potter Hospice’s dedication to Te Ao Māori, Mana Whenua, and our communities.
A ceremony of remembrance and hope
Hautapu is a Matariki ceremony. It honours those we’ve lost, gives thanks for today, and welcomes the hopeful year ahead.
The morning started with a Mihi Whakatau. Then, local kaumātua Matua Callum Kātene and Matua Joe McLeod led the Hautapu ceremony. As dawn slowly broke, staff recited the Matariki karakia together in a powerful moment of reflection and shared purpose.
Karen Jacobs-Grant, Director Health Equity-Kaitohu Mana Taurite Hauora of Mary Potter Hospice said:
“As I looked around, I saw many people in the darkness, listening to the karakia. The sky started to lighten, and I felt a true sense of peace and belonging.”
“It reminded me that Matariki is more than a celebration. It’s an opportunity to pause, reflect and strengthen the bonds that connect us.”
A space for connection
After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed breakfast. They had rongoā hāngī and other favourites. Over kai, conversations flowed, friendships deepened and new connections were made.
Throughout the morning, people were invited to share personal reflections. Many shared heartfelt stories about loved ones they had lost. This created a space where grief, remembrance, and hope could be shared openly and safely.
“I hope everyone left feeling a stronger sense of connection to each other, to our community and to the values that Matariki represents. It’s a time to remember those who have gone before us, to acknowledge the present with gratitude and to look ahead with hope and purpose.”
The morning reflected Te Whare Tapa Whā by:
- Nourishing taha wairua through remembrance.
- Strengthening taha whānau by fostering connection.
- Supporting taha hinengaro through deep reflection.
- Caring for taha tinana by sharing nourishing kai together.
Built by community
The event grew from partnerships already established with Tū Ora, Mana Wāhine and community groups. Staff, volunteers, and partners rallied behind the idea. They prepared the space late into Tuesday evening, lighting the fire before dawn. Then, they welcomed guests from neighbouring hospices and healthcare organisations.
“Our inaugural Matariki Hautapu celebrates our commitment to Te Ao Māori, Mana Whenua and our community. Together with our partners at Tū Ora and Mana Wāhine, we opened our doors at this significant time of year to bring our community together. It was a powerful reminder that Mary Potter Hospice is here for everyone.”
The beginning of a new tradition
Our inaugural Matariki Hautapu was more than the beginning of a new tradition. It was a reflection of who we are and who we aspire to be.
We strengthen our partnerships with Mana Whenua, Tū Ora, Mana Wāhine, and the communities we serve. This helps us support people when they need us most. We are creating a future where hospice care stays connected to our communities. It’s rooted in Te Ao Māori and guided by compassion, partnership, and belonging.
Ngā mihi
Thank you to everyone who helped make this special morning happen. We appreciate our project team and volunteers. A big thank you to kaumātua and community partners too. Thanks to all who gave their time, energy, and aroha.
We look forward to gathering together again next Matariki.
Photo gallery
Photos by Zac McSweeney.